As per historical archives and archaeological artifacts, Chiang Rai was founded before Chiang Mai by King Mang Rai the Great who moved from Hiran Ngoen Nakorn Chiang Saen Empire, the first Thai settlement by the Mae Khong River in 1262 A.D. Chiang Rai was ever used to be an independent state as well as administrative center of the northern Thai and was later on annexed to be a territory of Chiang Mai as of part Lanna Kingdom in 1296. In 1786, Lanna Kingdom became a Principality & Protectorate State of Siamese Kingdom reported directly to the Royal Thai Family (Chakri Dynasty) and administrative center in Bangkok. Later on, in the reign of King Rama VII all northern principality states was given up and proclaimed to be a province of Thailand so on. Nowadays, Chiang Rai is the northernmost province of Thailand lies in the heart of the notorious Golden Triangle, the area where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Lao converge. It is well known for its stunning mountain scenery and is home to several hilltribes. The main hilltribe groups found in this region are; Hmong, Karen, Lahu, Lisu, Akha and Mien. These ethnic minorities began to migrate to Thailand at the end of 19th century and some groups may have been here much longer. Each hilltribes has its own customs, culture, religion clothing and language.

Day 01: Chiang Rai - Arrival

MORNING Arrival in Chiang Rai and transfer from Chiang Rai Airport to start a Chiang Rai’s City & Temples Tour .Chiang Rai’s City & Temples Tour: A tour with an opportunity to explore the main attractions of the northernmost town of Thailand. The interesting architectures spreading across the city are a combination of influence between the Thai's and Burmese. Wat Phra Kaew is a must see for everyone. This temple was built in the 12th century during the Lanna Empire. It was here that the Emerald Buddha was discovered and later moved to Bangkok. A replica was made and placed in the same spot where it was found. Continue by a long Tail boat adventure to Tham Pla cave - where the temple is built inside the cave. The local consider this place a sacred ground. It's not every day that one can enjoy a ride on the rickshaw. Then proceed through the town to visit a local market, which presents you a colorful sight of the people and their colorful life-style. Here you can see people from all walks of life and an opportunity to buy some local gifts. AFTERNOON After the tour, transfer to check in at your hotel either at The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort or at Dusit Island Resort . Overnight either at The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort or Dusit Island Resort

Day 02: Chiang Rai - Doi Tung – Golden Triangle & Chiang Saen (B/L)

Breakfast ,Visit the Doi Tung Hilltribe Project located in the northwestern hills of Chiang Rai. It is the Hilltribe Settlement area here the tribal groups are encouraged to maintain their cultural identity under the patronage of the Royal Thai Family. Continue to Mae Sai, the northernmost point border town in Thailand located at the borders of Thailand and Myanmar. Drive along then, the Mae Khong River to visit the Golden Triangle where the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Lao converge. Proceed to Chiang Saen to visit the first Thai settlement ruins of 14th Century by the Mae Khong River before returning to the hotel. Overnight either at The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort or at Dusit Island Resort .

Day 03: Chiang Rai – Elephant Safari (B/L)

Breakfast, In the early morning, leave the hotel to the boat landing in Chiang Rai. Take a boat ride on the Mae Kok River to the Karen Village at Baan Ruam Mitr to take an elephant riding. The terrain is hilly on the two hours trip and one enjoys a spectacular view of the mountains surrounding Chiang Rai. Once across the ridge descend to Yao. Hilltribe Village where you will be picked up for a picnic lunch at Golden Triangle’s Camp by a mountain stream. After lunch, visit other hill villages in the area and return to hotel. Overnight at The Imperial Golden Triangle Resort or Dusit Island Resort

Day 04: Chiang Rai – Departure (B)

Breakfast at hotel .After breakfast, check-out and transfer to Chiang Khong & Huay Xay Border Pass will be provided for those who have an onward conjunction travel with Luang Say Cruise. Those who doesn’t have any onward conjunction travel schedule will be at leisure until the departure time and transferred to Chiang Rai Airport to return to Bangkok by flight (airfare is not included).